Regular dental appointments are key to maintaining teeth health, but what you do in between those visits is just as important. The responsibility of keeping your teeth clean and healthy rests with you, and it can be difficult to know exactly what steps to take. With so much information out there, it’s easy to feel confused about what routines are both effective and manageable for daily life.
At Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA, we’re here to guide you through the proper way to care for your teeth at home. We’ll walk you through the most important practices and clear up a few common myths about oral hygiene.
Why Is Caring for Your Teeth So Important?
Maintaining a consistent teeth care routine is essential for more than just a bright smile, although aesthetics is certainly one good reason to invest in good oral care. Beyond cosmetics, however, good teeth care helps to prevent common dental issues that can lead to more serious health problems down the road. Neglecting healthy teeth can result in complications with your teeth and even more serious health problems such as heart disease. Some of the consequences of poor dental hygiene include:
Cavities and Tooth Decay
When enamel becomes weakened due to poor teeth care, cavities can form, creating small holes in your teeth. Left untreated, these cavities worsen, leading to pain, infection, and sometimes the need for more invasive treatments. Preventing cavities through daily brushing keeps your teeth healthy and strong and limits the time you spend in your dentist’s office.
Gum Disease
Gum disease starts with gingivitis, which causes inflammation and bleeding gums. If not treated early, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe condition that damages the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Consistent oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, can help stop gum disease before it progresses.
Tooth Loss
One of the most severe consequences of neglecting oral hygiene is tooth loss. Gum disease and untreated cavities can eventually lead to losing teeth and the necessity for dentures or other solutions. If you want to keep your teeth for life, the best thing you can do is take care of them now.
Bad Breath
While bad breath can be linked to other health concerns such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or tonsil stones, halitosis is often simply a result of poor oral hygiene. When bacteria build up in the mouth, it leads to unpleasant odors. Regular brushing, flossing, and tongue cleaning are all ways to keep your mouth fresh.
How Plaque and Tartar Affect Oral Health
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. When sugars and starches from food mix with plaque, they produce acids that wear down enamel and lead to cavities and gum disease. If plaque is not removed through daily brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, a more stubborn substance that can only be removed by a dentist.
Tartar not only makes your teeth feel rough and look discolored but also provides a solid surface for more plaque to build upon. This can cause further damage and increase the risk of cavities and gum disease. Preventing plaque buildup is simple: brush twice a day, floss daily, and schedule regular cleanings.
The Best Practices for Brushing Your Teeth
Choosing the right toothbrush is the first step to effective brushing. A soft-bristled brush is gentle on your gums and enamel while still effectively removing plaque. To brush properly, angle your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle toward your gum line and make small, circular motions for two minutes. Be sure to brush gently to avoid damaging your gums and enamel. After brushing, rinse your toothbrush well and replace it every three months.
Choosing the Right Toothbrush
Soft bristles are generally recommended, as they are gentle on your gums and enamel. Hard bristles can cause wear on your teeth and irritate your gums over time. You can speak to your dentist for more specific recommendations regarding your teeth and gums. When choosing between electric and manual toothbrushes, you will find that both remove plaque and allow you to maintain proper hygiene. While rotating electric toothbrushes may be slightly more efficient, manual toothbrushes work just as well if you brush correctly and for the recommended two minutes. The most important factor in maintaining healthy teeth is your brushing technique, not the type of toothbrush you choose.
The Principles of Flossing
Flossing is essential for removing food particles and plaque from areas your toothbrush can’t reach, such as between teeth and under the gumline. To floss properly, gently slide the floss between your teeth and curve it around each tooth, moving it up and down. Floss daily to keep your gums healthy and prevent plaque buildup. Choose a floss that feels comfortable for you, whether waxed or unwaxed. String floss is the most effective because you can curve it around the teeth more effectively, but it can still be helpful to keep a bag of floss picks in your car or at your desk to remove food particles as needed.
Can I Use a Water Flosser Instead of Flossing?
While a water flosser can be a helpful addition to your teeth care routine, it should never completely replace traditional flossing. Water flossers can effectively remove food particles and reduce plaque in hard-to-reach areas, but they may not clean as thoroughly between the teeth as flossing. If you cannot afford a water flosser, flossing regularly will be enough to maintain proper oral hygiene.
How to Choose the Right Toothpaste
When choosing a toothpaste, look for a product that has 1,000 parts per million fluoride and the ADA Seal of Acceptance. You should beware of products that contain abrasive ingredients such as charcoal which may damage the enamel of your teeth. If you have sensitivity, you can choose an over-the-counter toothpaste or ask your dentist for a prescription-strength toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
Choosing Foods That Support Strong Teeth
Sugary and acidic foods like candy, soda, and citrus can erode enamel and may lead to cavities. Focus on nutrient-rich foods such as leafy greens, dairy products, nuts, and fibrous fruits, which provide essential vitamins and minerals like calcium and vitamin D. Staying hydrated is also important since water helps wash away food particles and keeps saliva levels balanced, promoting overall oral health.
Additional Habits to Avoid for Proper Teeth Care
Certain habits can negatively impact your teeth care efforts. Avoid using your teeth to open packaging since this can cause chips and cracks. Teeth grinding, especially at night, can wear down enamel and lead to more serious dental issues over time. Using a mouthguard can help protect your teeth if you grind during sleep.
When to Schedule an Appointment With Your Dentist
Scheduling regular dental check-ups is crucial for keeping your teeth healthy. It’s recommended to visit your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and exams. If you experience pain, swollen gums, persistent bad breath, or loose teeth, it’s important to schedule an appointment right away to address potential issues before they worsen. Regular check-ups ensure that any problems are caught early, helping you maintain optimal teeth health.
Schedule Your Dental Cleaning Today!
Maintaining daily habits like proper brushing and flossing can help protect your teeth health and prevent future issues. Simple actions, like choosing the right toothbrush and staying hydrated, make a real difference in keeping your teeth strong. At Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA, we can help you find the best routine for your teeth. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us at (404) 688-1350 or fill out our online form.